Alden Ehrenreich and five other actors being considered for role of Han Solo. The search for someone to play a young version of the beloved mercenary in the upcoming Star Wars spin-off film has narrowed down.

Details remain scarce about the film, which is planned for release in 2018. This date places it after Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, which is also a prequel and set to hit theaters towards the end of the year. Speculation remains about the likelihood of Harrison Ford, who originated the role of Han Solo in the series’ 1977 debut Star Wars: A New Hope, appearing in some capacity in the movie. Lucasfilm‘s search for a new actor to play the role indicates that the project will focus on Solo’s early days however.

In any case, frontrunners have clearly emerged in the quest for a new Han Solo. Ehrenreich’s competition for the character includes Jack Reynor and Taron Egerton, with at least two other names being floated in consideration for the role:

According to THR, tests were conducted in London last weekend and actors Alden Ehrenreich (Hail, Caesar!), Jack Reynor (Transformers: Age of Extinction), and Taron Egerton (Kingsman, Eddie the Eagle) emerged as front-runners. Plus, Variety adds that Blake Jenner (Glee) and Jack O’Connell (Starred Up, Unbroken) are also in contention.

Apparently a few other names may also be on the list, but they remain under wraps for now.

Leave your thoughts on Alden Ehrenreich, Jack Reynor, Taron Egerton, Blake Jenner, and Jack O’Connell being considered for the role of Han Solo (via Comicbookmovie) in the comments section below. For more Star Wars photos, videos, and information, visit our Star Wars Page, and consider subscribing to us by Email, “following” us on Twitter, Tumblr, Google+, or “liking” us on Facebook for quick updates. The untitled Han Solo film is set for release on May 25th, 2018.